Herbalists' Cache ticking time

star eater’s smile lingers, slow and serene, as she feels the woman’s grasp loosen and the space between them stretch once more. she does not stop her. does not tether nagruk in place with words or glances.
instead, she dips her head faintly, acknowledging the promise with a quiet pride. good, she murmurs, voice smooth and cool as the snow beneath their paws. when the time comes, i’ll call.
pindent]there’s something sincere in it—something deeper than mere politeness. nagruk’s strength was evident, and there would be no better hands to help carry the weight of that night if it were needed.
star eater shifts, just enough to glance back at the shelter sun eater built, her belly heavy, cubs restless beneath her skin. and thank you, she adds, as nagruk begins to turn away.
she watches her go, gaze sharp and thoughtful, though she does not hold her. there will be other times. other moments. for now, she lets the wild woman slip into the wind.